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If you're looking for a small crossover SUV with some
off-road capability, you may have discovered there are only a handful that really make the cut, one of which is the Jeep Renegade. We recently had the opportunity to check out the 2016 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk edition to see if it has the goods.
Real World Review
Renegade Trailhawk
2016 Jeep
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With a 2.4 liter inline 4-cylinder engine paired to a 9-speed automatic, the Renegade might not be able to tackle aggressive technical off-road duties, but in your average just-out-for-a-fun-Saturday type of situations, it does pretty well. The enhanced all-wheel-drive system sports low-range gearing, hill-descent control and terrain selection as standard features, which come in handy in bad weather or loose dirt. These are the kind of off-road features you won't find on every small SUV. Off-road ability is enhanced thanks to short overhangs and a slight suspension lift. In addition, the Trailhawk has 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which is about an inch more than other trim levels.
Ample Power
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The Renegade Trailhawk is also equipped with other off-road friendly features such as tow hooks, just in case your adventure turns into a rescue mission, and skid plates to protect the Jeep's underside. The little Jeep can do a good bit of hauling, but towing maxes out at 2,000 pounds, so don't plan on anything larger than a small camper, boat or ATV.
Adventure Ready
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While the Renegade is on the small side, the interior feels fairly spacious. As long as you don't have someone that's super-tall up front, the back seat is pretty roomy. The available removable roof panels will run you about $1,500, but we don't think they're worth the trouble. As for space for your gear, the height-adjustable cargo floor and split rear seat make it easy to load up for a camping trip or a weekend tailgate. The Trailhawk proves that just because a car is tough doesn't mean it can't be comfortable. That being said, an available 8-way power driver's seat with lumbar control and a heated steering wheel are welcomed features.
Comfortable Interior
2016 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk: Real World Review - Video
Find a Jeep Renegade for Sale
All in all, the 2016 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk is a solid choice if you're looking for a small crossover that's up for a little more off-road adventure than your average SUV.
When it comes to technology, the Trailhawk delivers the usual new-car offerings, but we found the mobile Wi-Fi and USB ports especially convenient on road trips and weekend camping trips. The rearview camera with cross-path detection comes in handy whether you're parking downtown or avoiding something on the trail. We especially appreciated the inclusion of rain-sensing wipers -- a surprisingly high-end touch for a subcompact SUV.
Tech on Deck